I had surgery for Dupuytrens on my right hand. My third finger had a 90deg bend and was straightened very well. My left hand has now the start of Dupuytrens with a lump at the base of the little finger but as yet, no contracture. I am reluctant to have surgery again due to the inconveinence and the long period of physiotherapy following. I am keen to have NA performed on this. I will be in Brisbane (I am a New Zealander) in August and need to know the answers to the following; Do I need a referral from my Doctor or do I make the appointment direct with the Wesley Medical centre and Dr Jennifer Green. What follow up consultations and for how long after the proceedure will I need to be in Brisbane? As a guide, what is the cost of the proceedure?

Hi Lemuzz,

I have just had NA with Dr Green, I have had previous NA with Dr Eaton in Florida, in answer to your questions:

Do I need a referral from my Doctor or do I make the appointment direct with the Wesley Medical centre and Dr Jennifer Green.

(A) I had to have a referral from my GP, but I guess you need to enquire directly to Dr Green’s rooms, I think the referral is required for claiming from Medicare, eg it must be an approved visit from a referring Dr before thay will pay.

What follow up consultations and for how long after the proceedure will I need to be in Brisbane?

(A) Again I think this would be best done through Dr. Green’s rooms, I was in no rush so did not rush for an early appointment for the procedure.

As a guide, what is the cost of the proceedure?
(A) Initial visit was $185 less Medicare rebate of $72.75, Procedure was $490 less $145.30 medicare rebate and a splint was $140 which I claimed from my private insurer. As the procedure is an"office" procedure it is not covered by private insurance, but heck still a lot cheaper than flying to Florida. That was my fifth release on that finger and whilst not as straight as previously and Dr Green suggested an open hand op will be my next step, nonetheless it was worth doing.

Hope this helps....